What happens if I let the Emperor control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the decision to let the Emperor control the Netherbrain is one of the most significant choices you can make in the game's narrative. This choice occurs near the end of the game, during the climax of the main storyline, and it has profound implications for the world and your companions. To understand how to achieve this outcome, it is important to first grasp the context and mechanics involved in this decision.

The Emperor is a powerful Mind Flayer who has been guiding you throughout the game, often from the shadows. As the story progresses, you learn more about his motivations and his connection to the Netherbrain, a massive, sentient entity that controls the Mind Flayers and their thralls. The Emperor's ultimate goal is to dominate the Netherbrain, using its power to reshape the world according to his vision. However, this path is fraught with moral ambiguity and potential consequences.

To reach the point where you can let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, you must first navigate a series of key story decisions. Early in the game, you will encounter the Githyanki and their leader, Vlaakith, who are also seeking to destroy the Netherbrain. You will need to decide whether to align with the Githyanki or to trust the Emperor. If you choose to side with the Emperor, you will need to maintain a positive relationship with him throughout the game. This involves making choices that align with his goals and avoiding actions that would alienate him.

As you progress through the game, you will face several critical moments where your decisions will impact your relationship with the Emperor. For example, during the encounter with the Githyanki Creche, you will have the option to either destroy the artifact that the Emperor is using to protect you or to keep it. Destroying the artifact will anger the Emperor and potentially lead to a confrontation, while keeping it will strengthen your alliance with him. Similarly, during the confrontation with Orpheus, the Githyanki prince who is imprisoned by the Emperor, you will need to decide whether to free Orpheus or to side with the Emperor. Freeing Orpheus will turn the Emperor against you, while siding with him will solidify your partnership.

Once you reach the final stages of the game, you will be faced with the ultimate choice: whether to let the Emperor control the Netherbrain or to pursue a different path. If you have maintained a strong alliance with the Emperor, he will present you with the option to allow him to dominate the Netherbrain. This choice will lead to a specific ending where the Emperor uses the Netherbrain's power to impose his will on the world, potentially leading to a new era of Mind Flayer dominance.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when pursuing this path. First, it is crucial to consistently make choices that align with the Emperor's goals. This means avoiding actions that would undermine his plans or reveal his true nature to your companions. Additionally, you should be prepared for the moral implications of this decision. Allowing the Emperor to control the Netherbrain will have far-reaching consequences for the world and your companions, and it may lead to outcomes that are not entirely positive.

One common mistake to avoid is making decisions that alienate the Emperor without fully understanding the consequences. For example, if you choose to free Orpheus without considering the impact on your relationship with the Emperor, you may find yourself locked out of the option to let him control the Netherbrain. It is also important to be aware of the potential for betrayal. The Emperor is a complex character with his own agenda, and there is always the possibility that he may turn against you if he feels threatened or if you fail to meet his expectations.

Advanced techniques for optimizing this path include carefully managing your dialogue choices and ensuring that you have a strong understanding of the game's narrative structure. By paying close attention to the Emperor's reactions and the consequences of your actions, you can make informed decisions that will help you achieve the desired outcome. Additionally, it can be helpful to explore the game's lore and backstory, as this will provide valuable context for the Emperor's motivations and the significance of the Netherbrain.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, the concept of mind control and domination is central to this storyline. In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, the Dominate Monster spell allows a caster to take control of a creature's actions, which is similar to what the Emperor seeks to do with the Netherbrain. Understanding how these mechanics work in the tabletop game can provide insight into the challenges and implications of allowing the Emperor to dominate the Netherbrain.

Specific examples and scenarios that illustrate this path include the confrontation with Orpheus and the final battle against the Netherbrain. In both cases, your choices will have a direct impact on the outcome of the story and the fate of the world. By carefully considering the consequences of your actions and maintaining a strong alliance with the Emperor, you can achieve the ending where he controls the Netherbrain and reshapes the world according to his vision.

In conclusion, allowing the Emperor to control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous decision that requires careful consideration and strategic planning. By understanding the mechanics involved, making informed choices, and avoiding common mistakes, you can navigate this path and achieve the desired outcome. However, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences and to consider the broader implications of your actions on the world and your companions.